257 clams for a lightbulb?
 

I have a 2001 C2 that was retrofitted with xenon lights by a previous owner. One of the headlights went out and I was dumbstruck to hear from my LPD the $257.00 quote for the bulb alone!

Is the retrofit kit (phillips) bulb the same as one sold by the dealer? IS there an alternative other than just driving during the day?

keith

I just replaced both of my HID bulbs. I believe they were Phillips bulbs, but they may have been Sylvania. I don't recall. I bought them from Pelican Parts. I think they were about $70 each.

Pull the bulb and check the part #, Post a pic of the lights and we can tell if it's a factory retrofit or some aftermarket one.
And as Dennis said, dont buy from the dealer! :)

I replaced both my HID bulbs for $90 from an on-line retailer who specializes in HID bulbs. Very happy with them.

Or these...
http://www.ebay.com/itm/2PCS-AC-35W-...item19cb1169de

I've purchased several sets on eBay over the years for on average $20 per bulb. They are the real Philips bulbs, Made in Germany, etc. I believe that they are likely harvested by auto wreckers from written off vehicles, tested, and resold - they always come in plain white boxes. No problems so far.

I don't really understand why Auto Zone and places like that don't sell these bulbs.

Replace them in pairs...if one is going out, the other will also. I think they might be D2S bulbs. They are pretty cheap. Take one out and check the part number since it is a retrofit. Also, go no higher than 6000K on the new bulb temp or you will be reducing the light output. Watch the cheap Ebay overseas bulbs...they might not last you very long. Some of the sponsors on here should be able to hook you up with a pair of new bulbs at half of what you are being told. Hope this helps.